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Summary of Massage Therapy & Splint for Sleep Bruxism: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Effects of Massage Therapy and Occlusal Splint Usage on Quality of Life and Pain in Individuals with Sleep Bruxism.


Cid Andre Fidelis de Paula Gomes, PT, Yasmin El-Hage, MSc, [...], and Daniela Aparecida Biasotto-Gonzalez, MD



Reference




PMC4691579 (Ref ID)


Chosen Image filename: PMC4691579_Figure_01.jpg




Document structure and format:


Title: Summary of Research Paper on “Effects of Massage Therapy and Occlusal Splint Usage on Quality of Life and Pain in Individuals with Sleep Bruxism: A Randomized Controlled Trial”


I. Introduction The research paper examines the effects of massage therapy and occlusal splint usage on quality of life and pain in individuals with sleep bruxism. Sleep bruxism is a movement disorder characterized by teeth grinding or clenching during sleep, which can lead to tooth wear and various symptoms. The paper aims to investigate the potential benefits of these treatment options on quality of life and pain reduction in individuals with sleep bruxism.


II. Methodology The study utilized a randomized controlled trial design. It involved 78 volunteers aged 18 to 40 years with sleep bruxism, who were randomly assigned to four groups: massage therapy, occlusal splint usage, combined massage therapy, and occlusal splint usage, or a control group.


Data collection involved assessments of quality of life and pain before and after the treatment protocols. The Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire, which evaluates different domains of quality of life, was administered. Pain intensity was assessed using a numerical rating scale (NRS).


Statistical analysis was performed to compare pre and post-treatment data using appropriate tests.


III. Results The findings of the research showed significant differences in the physical functioning, general health state, vitality, role emotional, and mental health subscales of the SF-36 questionnaire. All treatment protocols led to a reduction in pain, with the combined treatment group showing the largest effect size. Statistical analysis supported these findings.


IV. Discussion In relation to the research question and objectives, the results suggest that both occlusal splint usage and massage therapy on the masticatory muscles have positive effects on the quality of life and pain reduction in individuals with sleep bruxism. The study highlights the potential benefits of these treatment options and their implications for managing sleep bruxism symptoms.


However, the study has limitations. The sample size was relatively small, and the study only evaluated short-term effects. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods is needed to confirm these findings.


V. Conclusion In conclusion, the research paper demonstrates that both massage therapy and occlusal splint usage can improve the quality of life and reduce pain in individuals with sleep bruxism. The findings suggest the potential of these treatment options in managing sleep bruxism symptoms. However, further research is required to validate these results and explore the long-term effects.


Overall, this study contributes valuable insights to the field of sleep bruxism treatment options and highlights the importance of considering multidisciplinary approaches for enhancing patients' quality of life and managing their pain.



Figure 1 - Flowchart of study
Courtesy of PMC4691579

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